DeSantis signs legislation protecting property owners from squatter scam

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on March 27 signed HB 621, which protects property rights, provides homeowners remedies against squatting, and increases penalties on squatters.

“We are putting an end to the squatters scam in Florida,” DeSantis said. “While other states are siding with the squatters, we are protecting property owners and punishing criminals looking to game the system.”

Under HB 621, a property owner can request law enforcement to immediately remove a squatter from their property if the following conditions are met:

• The individual has unlawfully entered and remains on the property;

• The individual has been directed to leave the property by the owner but has not done so; and

• The individual is not a current or former tenant in a legal dispute.

HB 621 also creates penalties for those engaged in squatting and for those who encourage squatting and teach others the scam. The bill makes it:

• A first-degree misdemeanor for making a false statement in writing to obtain real property or for knowingly and willfully presenting a falsified document conveying property rights;

• A second-degree felony for any person who unlawfully occupies or trespasses in a residential dwelling and who intentionally causes $1,000 or more in damages; and

• A first-degree felony for knowingly advertising the sale or rent of a residential property without legal authority or ownership.